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UPYRKILT Scottish Terriers
What does a Scottie look like? The well-known Scottie silhouette is that of a short-legged but substantial terrier with distinctive furnishings at the beard, legs and lower body. Height at withers for either sex should be about 25.4 to 28 cms and weight between 8.6 to 10.4.kgs. The wiry topcoat and soft, dense undercoat coat can be black, wheaten yellow or a brindle-stripe pattern. Bright, piercing eyes with a varminty expression, and erect ears and tail, convey keen alertness – a hallmark of Britain’s terrier breeds. The Scottish Terrier has been a recognisable breed since the late 1800’s, thriving in the rough and rugged terrain of the Scottish Highlands. Given his origins, he is known as a tough, generally healthy dog, protected from the elements by a thick double coat and from illness by an overall strong, disease-resistant constitution. Conscientious breeders like ourselves work diligently to identify healthy breeding stock when producing their litters so please discuss this with prospective breeders to ensure disease/health testing has been done. When vaccinated during puppyhood and at appropriate times during his lifetime to protect him from preventable diseases, and given the benefits of modern-day veterinary care, a Scottie usually thrives for many years. On average the Scottie lives about 12 years and it’s not uncommon to encounter healthy seniors who reach 14 years or more. If you’ve ever seen Lady and the Tramp, you’ll know what you’re in for with the Scottish Terrier. They’re proud, dignified, stubborn, wary of strangers and unshakeably loyal to their friends. Owners who decide to raise a Scottish Terrier will have their work cut out for them – but it will be worth the effort.
What is the personality of a Scottie like? A solidly compact dog of vivid personality, the Scottish Terrier is an independent, confident companion of high spirits. Scotties have a dignified, almost-human character. Their terrier persistence has earned the breed the nickname “the Diehard.” They are extremely loyal and attached to their people – However Scotties will want to do things on their terms. They are unlike most dogs because of this singular trait. They tend to think they are large dogs and have the boldness and courage to match, bred to hunt feisty badgers – not much intimidates these dogs. To outsiders Scotties appear somewhat morose and serious but to their family and friends they are affectionate and cheerful. They love children however children must be taught that these dogs are not toys and to give them the respect they deserve. They will get along well with other household animals with appropriate training. Anyone who has owned a Scottie will say they have a bond they have not had with any other breed of dog. Scotties fit easily into their new homes and quickly become a family member however to achieve that deeper bond their love is earned – not freely given and this often takes time.
Scotties must be in fenced yards. They require a fence that cannot be jumped over, dug under or scaled with a locked gate as they have a very strong hunting instinct and will go after anything they consider prey (including a dog much larger than they). Electric fences will not work as they are pain tolerant and will easily accept the shock
and not be deterred from pursuing their prey. Yards must be secure, flowerbeds protected, gates and doors kept locked at all times. This is not a dog that is scared to explore. In the dog park Scotties are not a happy-golucky, get-along with anybody dog. They will not back down from an aggressive dog. A Scottie should always be on a leash outside of your yard.
Scottie Personalities! Scotties are on their best behaviour when the option to interact with their humans is present. If left alone for long periods, they will seek ways to while away the time, sometimes in manners you may not approve of. Despite their size, they don’t yap: they have a powerful bark that can scare the wits out of the unsuspecting burglar or delivery person and are protective of their turf and usually bark if they sense anyone or anything is a threat. This may also include postmen as well as passing dogs and cats. They totally rock at agility and earthdog trials. You’ll enjoy a rodent-free yard with one of these dogs around but watch out for the holes they’ve dug. They are a breed that absolutely love water but drown very easily – many a Scottie has drowned even in shallow water. That however does not rule out a water game with the sprinkler or sprint at the beach through the water with all that sand to dig in.
Scotties are a low shedding breed meaning they moult very little hair, however as with all long haired/low moulting breeds they require regular brushing and grooming. This must begin at a very early age and be stepped up during the changeover to adult coat. Scottish Terriers need to be professionally groomed four to five times a year. Scotties tend to take a different approach to training then other dogs. Many describe them as being stubborn and difficult to train – it’s all in your approach to training. Training needs to based on mutual respect as they are a breed that think very much like a human. Ask your family member to come over, sit and stay. The first time they will likely do it and then ask you what do you want (or may ask this first before even coming). Let them walk off then call them again and see if they come! A Scottie thinks just like this – they will query the viability of what you are asking them to do and whether or not they want to do it. If you work on strengthening the bond with your Scottie, their loyalty will make them excellent students. Not only will they learn quickly but they have high intelligence and can compete in many disciplines. Despite what you might think about the Scottie’s stubbornness, behind that impressive beard is a big heart. They want to do right by their owners and will become withdrawn with harsh reprimands. A Scottie never forgets! Positive reinforcement training techniques are best for a Scottie and never make anything so repetitive it becomes boring. When it comes to their energy levels they are moderately energetic. They’ll easily keep up with your family’s activities but they won’t be disappointed if you’re not out running every day. Somewhere between a brisk 30-minute walk and a few hours of playtime is plenty. Scotties really do not slow down until they approach the age of 10 years and do expect daily outdoor interaction, play or exercise. You will find quality Scottie breeders are a picky and devoted bunch and be prepared to wait sometime for a puppy, their goal is that you and their puppy are happy.
